Editor's note: The sixth edition of "My China Album" — which records Americans' experiences in China — is about to be released online and offline.
The latest version includes four short video episodes and a video featuring a deep dive into the heart of China, exploring its long history, modern life, and inviting policy, as well as people-to-people exchanges between the US and China.
Here is a brief introduction of the stories featured in the new edition of the video series.
Charles Stone, a lawyer from Illinois, US, living in Shenzhen
Charles Stone, a lawyer from Illinois, US, was captivated by Shenzhen's unique charm when he arrived. Known for its economic vitality and natural beauty, the city's abundance of parks and greenery surprised him. Rain or shine, he became a frequent visitor to Lianhuashan Park, where he found inspiration to write poetry as a fan of Chinese literature. What stood out most to Stone was Shenzhen's exceptional safety, allowing him to explore parks alone at any time. With its welcoming environment and vibrant energy, Shenzhen has become home to over 100,000 foreigners, inspiring Stone to extend his stay indefinitely.
Frank Stonier, an educator from Georgia, US, living in Chongqing
Frank Stonier, an educator from Georgia, US, has made Chongqing his home for the past seven years. Known for his efforts in combating mountain fires two years ago, he gained local fame, even inspiring a statue in his honor. Beyond his internet recognition, Stonier is deeply committed to promoting science programs for younger students, a mission that drives his work in Chongqing. He is now seeing his projects flourish and aims to make the city a strong base for his educational initiatives. Stonier admires Chongqing's growth, infrastructure, and vibrant community, embracing it as his home despite cultural differences.
Neil Schmid, a researcher from Virginia, US, living in Dunhuang
Neil Schmid, a researcher from Virginia, USA, has lived in Dunhuang for seven years, drawn by its rich history and the Mogao Caves, his favorite place in the world. First visiting in 1987, he fell in love with the city and the caves, which he believes require "several lifetimes" to fully understand. Schmid has linked Dunhuang's ancient art to Western masterpieces, noting similarities between a Mogao Cave painting and Leonardo da Vinci's Salvator Mundi. Comfortable living in the Gobi Desert, Schmid admires Dunhuang's culture, food, and friendships.
Ruthie, a student from Georgia, US, studying in Chongqing
Ruthie, a student from Georgia studying at Chongqing University, has quickly adapted to life in China, thanks to its cutting-edge digital ecosystem. In just a few months, mobile payments and streamlined apps have transformed her daily routine, enabling effortless transfers and online shopping. Ruthie marvels at innovations like shared bikes and palm and facial recognition payments, describing them as "unbelievable" and uniquely Chinese. For her, China is a glimpse into the future—a place where technology seamlessly blends into everyday life, offering endless discoveries and possibilities.
Rochelle, a copy editor from Ohio, US
Rochelle, a copy editor from Ohio, recently returned to China after several years abroad. Despite her long-standing familiarity with the country, she remains astonished by its rapid technological advancements. In Guangdong, aerial taxi services—a network of compact, multi-blade helicopters connecting cities across the Greater Bay Area—have captured her attention. These innovations, alongside breakthroughs like robotic home assistants and autonomous driving technologies, are seamlessly integrating into daily life, reshaping the landscape of modern convenience. Rochelle's perspective, shaped by her unique experiences, highlights the transformative power of these cutting-edge developments in redefining the possibilities of the future.
Bee Rose, a content creator from Georgia, US
Bee Rose, a content creator from Georgia, US, arrived in China six years ago, initially uncertain about her new life. Over time, she fell in love with the country, embracing its culture and discovering the incredible diversity of Chinese cuisine and the country's 56 ethnic groups. Reflecting on misconceptions shaped by media, she is marveling at the futuristic designs of electric vehicles, and being awestruck by the efficiency of high-speed rail. Her travels on China's sleek, punctual trains and encounters with advanced infrastructure have left a lasting impression on her and her audience of over 20,000 followers. Passionate about embracing progress, BeeRose uses her platform to showcase how China's rapid technological advancements are reshaping daily life and setting new global benchmarks. Deeply inspired by her experiences, BeeRose decided to marry and raise her children in China, as she now pursues what she calls "the Chinese Dream," fully embracing the opportunities and experiences her life in China offers.
Dustin Madison from Illinois, US, living Shenzhen
Dustin Madison, a father from Illinois, US, moved to Shenzhen with his family two years ago and was pleasantly surprised by the city's child-friendly environment. Despite media misconceptions, the family found Shenzhen's thoughtfully designed infrastructure to be ideal for raising children. Dustin highlights interactive and educational spaces, such as science labs, which provide engaging learning opportunities for his son. The Madison family appreciates Shenzhen's unique blend of culture and innovation, making it an excellent place for families to grow and thrive. Their experience reflects Shenzhen's commitment to weaving child-friendly concepts into its urban landscape.
Katherine, an environmental worker and content creator from Virginia, US, living Hangzhou
Katherine (阳离子), an environmental worker and content creator from Virginia, US, has found a home in a picturesque village in Hangzhou, China. Her perception of China changed dramatically over the years, shifting from the polluted image she saw in high school to the green and vibrant environment she now experiences. After earning her degrees from Nanjing University, Katherine began working for an environmental organization in Hangzhou, dedicating herself to preserving the nature she loves. She is impressed by China's rapid progress in environmental protection, from green cityscapes and parks to scenic riverside trails, reflecting a deep commitment to sustainability.
Abe Powell, a teacher from the US working at Lanzhou University
Abe Powell, a popular foreign teacher at Lanzhou University, has called China home for 15 years. Originally from the U.S., Powell took his first flight abroad to work in China after graduating from college, never imagining he would stay this long. Struck by Lanzhou's modernity and size, it was the warmth and generosity of its people that truly captivated him. He recalls a village visit where strangers welcomed him with their very best hospitality, a gesture that left a lasting impression. Powell believes embracing new experiences and cultures is key, urging others to look beyond media narratives and visit China to discover its true essence.
Thelma Lancaster, a retired teacher from California, US
Thelma Lancaster, a retired teacher from California, embarked on her first journey to China, beginning in Beijing. Initially filled with apprehension, her visit quickly evolved into a profound exploration of culture and history. A highlight of her trip was a visit to a traditional Hutong home, where she observed the ingenuity and charm of century-old living spaces. Beijing's seamless blend of historical depth and modern vibrancy left a lasting impression. For Lancaster, the experience underscored the value of cultural exchange, reaffirming her belief that greater contact between people fosters mutual understanding and breaks down barriers.
Evan Kail, a pawnshop manager from Minnesota, US
Evan Kail, a pawnshop manager from Minnesota, is exploring Tianjin as part of his month-long tour of China. His journey began with a unique connection—donating a World War II-era photo album to the Chinese people, an act that deepened his appreciation for the country's rich history. Now, as he experiences China firsthand, Kail is captivated by the vibrant blend of local traditions and modern lifestyles in its cities. Inspired by what he sees and tastes, including the famous Jianbing, Kail encourages others to explore China for themselves, embodying the sentiment that true understanding comes from direct experience.
Joseph W. Polisi, President Emeritus of the Juilliard School, serving as its chief China officer
Joseph W. Polisi, President Emeritus of the Juilliard School, now serves as its chief China officer. He has dedicated himself to fostering cultural exchange through the development of Juilliard's Tianjin campus. Guided by the belief that shared artistic expression transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, Polisi has championed efforts to bring people closer through music and the arts. His vision underscores the importance of listening and collaboration, emphasizing that even small actions can spark meaningful change. As young artists from China and the United States come together, they carry forward a legacy of mutual understanding, paving the way for a future of stable and sustainable relations between the two nations.
